Debates emerge as 2020 Democratic primary flash point

The first Democratic presidential debate is still months away, but the sprawling field of prospective contenders is beginning to grasp a crushing reality: Any candidate who fails to make the cut for the first debate stage is likely to see their candidacy implode. The kickoff debate could come as early as spring or summer 2019 - and the prospect of it is already accelerating the timetable for Democrats to raise money, hire staff and raise their profiles beyond an asterisk in national and early-state polls. The reason? Any candidate who fails to qualify for the debate is likely doomed. “By...Read more ...